The enlightening discoveries that delightfully unfolded during my recent trip to Mendocino County, California left me quite impressed. The focus on organic and biodynamic farming here is deeply rooted and carried through with tremendous passion and dedication. Families continue to pass along this depth of caring for the land and its crops from generation to generation. I highly recommend that you experience it for yourself! Meanwhile, I hope this will give you just a taste of what you will discover in Mendocino:

Paul Dolan Vineyards 2010 Zinfandel, Mendocino County, CA: Hold on as you will be bowled over by this juicy, berry-laden Zinfandel crafted with organic and biodynamic farming techniques. Deliciously concentrated dark berry and plummy fruit laced with candied orange peel and savory spice drench the palate with jammy goodness. The focused fruit is bright and offset with a nice splash of acidity keeping it fresh and lively through the delectable finish. SRP: $17.95 www.pauldolanwine.com

Chiarito Vineyard 2009 Negromaro, Mendocino County, CA: John Chiarito has crafted a beautiful wine from this grape more commonly grown in southern Italy. Inviting blackberry and earthy aromas remain consistent on the palate, with cassis, wild berry, anise and allspice notes adding depth on mid palate. Full bodied and richly textured with firmly structured tannins suggesting many years of aging potential ahead. SRP: $32 www.chiaritovineyard.com

Kimmel Vineyards 2009 Merlot, Potter Valley, Mendocino County, CA: Here is a Merlot that will keep you coming back for more! At first whiff the inviting fragrance of a freshly baked blueberry, cherry cobbler, a hint of vanilla and a splash of cherry-cola grabs hold and never lets go, gliding with a silky texture across the palate. Rich and elevated with lovely purity; finishes with finesse. SRP: $38 www.kimmelvineyards.com

Black Kite Cellars Stony Terrace Block Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, Mendocino County, CA: Intoxicating aromas of dark cherry and plum set the stage for a beautifully complex mouthful of black raspberry, cherry, mushroom, oak nuances and a broad swathing of baking spices all intertwining melodiously through the lingering finish. That in concert with the precise balance of fruit, acidity and silky tannins will have you swooning with joy. SRP $52 www.blackkitecellars.com

McNab Ridge 2009 Family Reserve Cononiah Vineyards Zinfandel, Mendocino County, CA: Wow, the alluring aromatics are intoxicating on their own, but move on into the glass for even more satisfaction! Juicy plums, black raspberries and chocolate covered cherries explode decadently on the palate alongside savory spice and nicely integrated oak. This Zin showcases beautiful purity and balance, with a delicious lingering aftertaste. SRP: $26 www.mcnabridge.com

Meyer Family Cellars 2009 Syrah, Yorkville Highlands Mendocino County, CA: Lush, concentrated berry and plum fruit and subtle expression of oak wrapped around a firm back bone of tannins is what this lovely, precisely balanced Syrah is all about. Tea spice, licorice and vanilla accent the pretty fruit as it flows across the palate; elegant and pure from first sip to long, memorable finish. Approachable now and cellar worthy, too. SRP $28 www.meyerfamilycellars.com

Mariah Vineyards 2006 Mendocino Ridge Syrah, Mendocino County, CA: The rich fragrance of dense berry and tobacco spice reel you into the glass, where you will delight in sumptuous layers of tart huckleberry, sweet fresh blueberry, a hint of bitter sweet chocolate and a generous sprinkling of spice. Powerfully built yet very elegant and lively on the palate, with a finish that is deliciously persistent. SRP: $18 www.mariahvineyards.com

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Welcome!

As a frequent wine judge and certified Sommelier, I find plenty of time to discover great wines. I’m delighted to share some of my discoveries with you through my Ellen On Wine blog. Enjoy, and I look forward to your own comments and tasting notes! - Ellen Landis